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Press Release

Farmington Man Charged with First Degree Murder, Assault and Federal Firearms Offenses to Remain in Jail Pending Trial

For Immediate Release
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of New Mexico

ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced that Hanson Tsosie appeared in federal court on an indictment charging him with one count of first degree murder, two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury, two counts of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and one count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Tsosie, 33, of Farmington, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.

According to the indictment, on September 5, 2021, Tsosie allegedly killed Jane Doe 1 by shooting her and assaulted John Doe and Jane Doe 2 with a firearm. The alleged assault on Jane Doe 2 resulted in serious bodily injury. Tsosie was previously convicted of battery against a household member. As a previously convicted domestic violence misdemeanant, Tsosie cannot legally possess firearms or ammunition.

An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted of the most serious allegation, Tsosie faces life in prison.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.

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23-255

Updated November 1, 2023

Topic
Indian Country Law and Justice
Press Release Number: 23-255